If you’re looking to spend some time by the sea this summer, look no further than these three splendid island destinations: the Maldives, Bali, and Phuket. Each COMO Hotels and Resorts’ property offers a signature blend of coastal living, water activities, culture, and a vibrant dining scene. Whether you’re longing for the privacy of an overwater villa, the energy of a vibrant beach town, or picturesque natural vistas, now’s the time to book that ticket and embark on a well-deserved journey to islands waiting to be discovered.
The Maldives: Barefoot luxury
Those yearning for a luxe place to escape the grind of daily life love the Maldives for its well-preserved natural beauty, rich marine biodiversity, array of water activities, and total privacy. It is easy to discover the magical underwater world of colourful coral reefs and swim with gentle nurse sharks, including in the waters of Vaavu Atoll.
Accessible via a 40-minute speedboat ride from the international airport in Malé, COMO Cocoa Island is a private retreat where white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and calm turquoise waters are part of the everyday experience. On arrival, it becomes immediately clear why this archipelagic nation, comprising nearly 1,200 islands formed from 26 atolls (vast ring-shaped coral formations fragmented into countless islets), is regarded as one of the world’s most popular island destinations.
Guests can learn to dive under the guidance of a team of PADI-certified instructors, while experienced divers can board one of several daily dive boats to explore up to 20 dive sites within a 30-minute radius. At night, snorkellers are invited to join a UV night snorkelling session, equipped with special torches and lenses that reveal a glowing underwater world of fluorescent coral.
After a day in the water, return to one of the resort’s One-Bedroom Water Villas with Pool and indulge in flavours of South Indian cuisine or a modern fusion of Asian and Mediterranean fare. A standout feature of the resort is its sandbank, perfect for barefoot sunrise meditation or an intimate dinner with chilled Champagne under the stars.
Just a 45-minute seaplane flight away lies COMO Maalifushi, a sister property located in the remote Thaa Atoll. Known for its blend of understated luxury, wellness, and pristine nature, the atoll boasts both diving sites and surf breaks. The resort features 33 overwater villas and 32 beach villas, alongside the renowned COMO Shambhala Retreat, where signature wellness treatments await.
Food enthusiasts will find no shortage of culinary delights. From fresh Japanese-style seafood at Tai to the tropical flavours at Madi – featuring influences from the Maldives, Indonesia, the Mediterranean, and Thailand – each dish is designed to complement a day of basking in the sun.
Guests must not miss two of the resort’s most exciting experiences: Game Fishing and the Lavadhoo Castaway Island Sleepover. The former takes guests out to sea with expert guides in pursuit of blue marlin or yellowfin tuna, while the latter offers a once-in-a-lifetime overnight stay on the uninhabited island of Lavadhoo, complete with a private dinner under the stars and a luxurious tent set up for two.
Bali: The lively town of Canggu
Famous for its surf breaks, the once sleepy village of Canggu is transforming into Bali’s hottest spot. Global nomads are flocking to Canggu in search of the laid-back beach lifestyle it’s become famous for. Be it for a sunset cocktail or a stroll along the shore, the relaxed cosmopolitanism of this coastal town is embodied within COMO Uma Canggu.
Located on Echo Beach, the beachfront resort flaunts a black-sand beach and direct access to surf breaks. During breakfast at COMO Beach Club, guests can see the surfers in action or watch their fellow guests dropping their boards and ordering cappuccinos. The resort’s verdant minimalism is perfectly captured at the highly sought after COMO Penthouse, a spacious three-bedroom accommodation with balconies, a rooftop pool, and an irresistible ocean view.
Its wellness programme, delicious gastronomic offerings, and plush suites aside, guests will benefit from taking thrilling surfing lessons with Tropicsurf (because why not) or booking an e-bike adventure along the island’s southern coast to Pura Tanah Lot.
Phuket: Beach hopping around the bay
If the bustle of Phuket’s main town feels overwhelming, head to Cape Yamu on the island’s serene east coast for a welcome escape. Overlooking the tranquil Andaman Sea, with its dramatic limestone formations rising from the water, this enclave invites guests to sail in a long-tail boat to uncover hidden beaches, swim, snorkel, and simply unwind. A stay at COMO Point Yamu offers sweeping views of the stunning Phang Nga Bay and serves as a luxurious base for exploring its natural wonders.
The family-friendly rooms, suites, and private villas are designed to reflect the blue waters of the surrounding sea. After a rejuvenating Thai massage at COMO Shambhala Retreat, gather the whole family from the Play by COMO Space and whisk them to hike to the panoramic lookout points. Meals can be had at La Sirena, a hearty wood-fired Italian restaurant, or at Nahmyaa, which is known for its Southern Thai specialties.
Learn more about these destinations at COMO Hotels and Resorts’ website.